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Canals & Boat Tripping
Many of Amsterdam's canals were filled in around the start of the 20th century, mainly for public health reasons. As beautiful as it usually is, there's nothing like seeing Amsterdam by boat, the city becomes even more picturesque from a duck's perspective: the houses look impossibly leaning, looming and jostling on both sides of the canal; bridges arch over the water, some of them opening for tall sailing vessels; and you get to spy on all those magnificent houseboats, ranging from restored barges overflowing with tomato plants and cats peeking from the portholes to sleek purpose-built 'arks' with feature windows and sundecks. There are numerous tourist boats doing the rounds, and it's also possible to rent a pedal boat, if you're feeling energetic.